The Gettysburg Address and Chapel Hill's Enduring Civic Pride

When Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, his words were a beacon of unity and purpose for a divided nation.

 

Today, in Chapel Hill, that same spirit resonates through a culture of thoughtful leadership and community engagement.

 

In June 2025, the town celebrated its fourth annual Pride Promenade, a vibrant event that showcased Chapel Hill's commitment to inclusivity and civic pride.

 

Starting at the Peace and Justice Plaza, the promenade featured speeches, music, and a march down Franklin Street, culminating in a lively gathering at 140 West Franklin Plaza.

 

Participants enjoyed performances, art installations, and community engagement activities, reflecting the town's dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for all.

 

Local leaders, like Town Council member Karen Stegman, emphasized the importance of visibility and unity during the event.

 

Stegman urged the community to embrace their authentic selves, stating, "Now is the time to be the best queens that we can be, whatever that means to you. Because we need to be seen, because visibility is resistance."

 

This sentiment underscores Chapel Hill's leadership culture, which values sincerity over spectacle and prioritizes meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

 

The town's commitment to community values is also evident in its support for local businesses and cultural initiatives.

 

Recent developments include the opening of Próximo, Chapel Hill's first Spanish tapas restaurant, and the arrival of H&H Bagels, an iconic New York City brand, at University Place.

 

These additions not only enhance the town's culinary landscape but also reflect its embrace of diverse cultures and traditions.

 

Furthermore, the expansion of local enterprises like CData, a Chapel Hill-based software startup that secured $350 million in funding, highlights the town's dynamic economic growth and innovative spirit.

 

Such developments are a testament to the community's dedication to progress and shared success.

 

Lincoln's message at Gettysburg was a call to recommit to shared ideals and the work ahead.

 

In Chapel Hill, this call is answered daily through a steadfast commitment to education, civic participation, and community care.

 

Whether it's through celebrating diversity, supporting local businesses, or fostering inclusive growth, the town embodies the enduring principles that Lincoln championed.

 

In doing so, Chapel Hill not only honors the legacy of the Gettysburg Address but also sets a contemporary example of leadership rooted in community values and quiet confidence.